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1. An Integrated Skills Lesson Plan for "Just Off Main Street" by Elmaz Abinader

   In: English Teaching Forum 2004, Volume 42, Issue 3 Format(s): Text

   This lesson plan is designed for high intermediate to advanced English language learners. Based on an authentic, contemporary essay by an accomplished American writer, the lesson plan includes tasks and activities designed to improve students’ English language skills as well as increase their understanding of American culture. The lesson includes pre-, during, and post reading activities to improve comprehension, learn new vocabulary, and make connections beyond the text. Websites of interest and useful questions for discussion or writing are included.

2. The Gift of the Magi and Other Stories

   Format(s): Text

   This collection of short stories by O. Henry gives the reader a wonderful selection of characters from the United States of 100 years ago.

3. VOA Podcast: Music Would Not Be The Same Without the Guitar

   In: VOA Podcasts: Shows in Special English Format(s): MP3, Text

   From Voice of America Podcasts in Special English. Learn how guitar just may be the most popular instrument in the world! Download the MP3 or listen online.

4. VOA Podcast: Making of a Nation: The Heart of the Constitution

   In: VOA Podcasts: Shows in Special English Format(s): MP3, Text

   From Voice of America Podcasts in Special English. Take a look at the Bill of Rights, the first 10 amendments to the U.S. Constitution. Download the MP3 or listen online.

5. The Power of the Picture Book

   In: English Teaching Forum 2020, Volume 58, Number 4 Format(s): Text

   The author shares techniques for using picture books—starting with the cover and moving on through the illustrations and text—to engage children and get them thinking and talking.

6. Teaching Story without Struggle: Using Graded Readers and Their Audio Packs in the EFL Classroom

   In: English Teaching Forum 2013, Volume 51, Number 3 Format(s): Text

   The authors developed the Bimodal Narrative Approach (BNA), which expands the extensive reading approach by adding listening activities. The authors, who used this approach with teacher trainees, outline the use of a graded reader novel and audio pack in BNA reading and listening classes. Video-based activities and evaluation are also discussed.

7. The Gift of the Magi

   In: The Gift of the Magi and Other Stories Format(s): Text

   The story of the Gift of the Magi describes a couple who go to great lengths to buy each other a special Christmas present.

8. The Use of Ethics in the EFL Classroom

   In: English Teaching Forum 2004, Volume 42, Issue 4 Format(s): Text

   If students are not meeting their goals, it may be that the reason is non-linguistic. Motivation is an important factor that teachers need to consider. The writer argues that carefully chosen ethics cases can motivate timid students to speak out by removing their fear of making mistakes and by encouraging them to talk about heart-felt beliefs. Since ethics cases may not have clear right and wrong answers, this sets them apart from other discussion topics. Debate will foster critical thinking skills.

9. 'Hey Kids! Let’s Put on a Show!' Theater in the English Language Classroom

   In: American English Webinars Format(s): Text, Video

   This webinar, "Hey Kids! Let's Put on a Show! Theater in the English Language Classroom,” focuses on how to use theater in the classroom--from developing short, theater-based activities to putting on a student show.

10. Lessons from the Other Side of the Teacher’s Desk: Discovering Insights to Help Language Learners

    In: English Teaching Forum 2011, Volume 49, Number 1 Format(s): Text

    An EFL instructor shares ideas on classroom practice after participating in an intensive language program. The author discusses L1 use in the classroom as well as the importance of pronunciation instruction. The article also includes tips on acquiring vocabulary and reasons why pair and group work are good. Finally, the author considers how to support students who may be experiencing communication anxiety as they learn a new language. The article emphasizes a communicative approach and the importance of a friendly classroom environment.

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